Purpose Magazine Spring Edition 2025

Spring 2025

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PURPOSE Magazine

PUBLISHER’S

Perspective L

iving victoriously during today’s challenges requires divine empowerment, courage, and discipline. As foundations are shaken and lawlessness prevails, it will be necessary to anchor onto the Lord. After getting a grip through prayer, fasting, and building family and team survival strategies, stand firm and brace for the storms and earthquakes of these times. Remember, there are solid principles for shaky environments. Relentless faith in God and His word, wise decision-making, determination to love despite evil encounters, and willingness to persevere regardless of obstacles are stabilizing forces for surviving and thriving during tough times.

A divine clarion call summons each of us to rise for service.

Swapping, trading, and giving within our own neighborhoods and communities may be a viable way to supply products, services, gifts, skills, and talents needed. Most of us have extra possessions we do not use. It’s time to clean out cluttered closets and spaces. There are myriads of ways to render help through acts of kindness and generosity. So, push persistently to dismantle distractions and excuses that emerge to hinder or stop the delivery of blessings.

Obviously, the unusual and the unexpected have become the norm. Gradually, senses of security traditionally enjoyed are diminishing, leaving many people fearful and insecure. But fear not because current chaos must happen before righteous judgement and a complete overhaul of the earth, which is not controlled by leaders of governments but the Almighty Sovereign Creator. Thus, it is wiser to adhere to God’s foreknowledge and prophecies than to blindly accept secular commentaries and opinions devoid of spiritual wisdom.

“Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don’t act thoughtlessly but understand what the will of the Lord is.”

-Proverbs 29:2 NKJV/KJV

Spring brings the renewal of life. This edition of PURPOSE offers articles for refreshing, reorganizing, and refocusing.

May you be inspired and elevated by what you read.

With Purpose,

Ella Coleman

We are divinely endowed and favored to overcome with excellence, not accepting mediocrity. Possessing inherited dominion, intelligence, creativity and spirituality enables us to be and do our best. It is simply a matter of choice and commitment.

Let’s rededicate ourselves to seeking and living a higher purpose. As a broken educational system is uprooted and defunded, churches, parents and concerned citizens may have to teach children in homes, community centers, churches, and libraries.

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12 Table of Contents

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THE POWER OF ACCOUNTABILITY IN ACHIEVING SUCCESS: A Commitment to Excellence

by Alleceia M. Walker

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FINDING MEANING IN ADVERSITY

by Emoni Hudson

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THE WISE PURPOSE ACADEMY: Bringing Hope and Transformation to Youths in Nigeria

by Ella Coleman

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HEALING THE FAMILY TREE: Strategies & Spiritual Warfare for Replacing Inherited Dysfunction with Healthy Behaviors

by Dr. Daniel Haupt

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9-10 BEING PHYSICALLY FIT AS A WOMAN OVER 50

by Traci Townsend

EMBRACE SWEET FREEDOM! A Life of Joy, Balance, and Abundance

by Trina Ramsey Lipscomb

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WORTHY TO ASK GOD

by Faye Harrison

THE SISTERHOOD JOURNEY: Through the Lens of Our Elders

by Deanita McCall

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CONTRIBUTOR’S PAGE

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NEXT GENERATION NOW HBCU’s Howard University Royal Court Speaks Inspritaion to Future Scholar’s

by Kayla Grant

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PUSHING BEYOND FEARS OF PERCEIVED FAILURES INTO PURPOSEFUL ACHIEVEMENTS

by Ilinda Reese

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BUILT WITH PURPOSE: A Blueprint for Black Men’s Health

by Derrick E. Haynes, PhD

PURPOSE Magazine

The Power of Accountability in Achieving Success:

Alleceia M. Walker, Managing Editor

A Commitment to Excellence

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ccountability is more than just a concept—it is a transformative force that can elevate personal and professional success. It represents a profound commitment, a deliberate decision to embrace insight, accept feedback, and remain steadfast on the path toward achievement. True accountability requires not only a willingness to grow but also the courage to confront challenges, recognize personal limitations, and uphold a standard of excellence.

The Courage to Be Accountable Accountability is an active choice, one that demands bravery. It takes courage to remain open to feedback, accept challenges, and step beyond the comfort zone. Growth and transformation emerge when individuals are willing to confront the discomfort of constructive criticism, allowing it to dismantle self-doubt and disrupt patterns of self-sabotage.

For instance, consider a young entrepreneur launching a startup. Despite initial enthusiasm, he or she struggles with marketing strategies and customer outreach. Instead of ignoring feedback, the budding businessperson chooses to seek guidance from mentors, analyze past mistakes, and refine their approach. By embracing accountability, this visionary can transform setbacks into learning opportunities, ultimately leading to a thriving business.

Building an Environment for Accountability Accountability thrives in environments where vulnerability is embraced, and progress is prioritized over perfection.

A constructive space fosters trust, support, and growth— qualities that transform accountability into a catalyst for achievement. Growth seldom occurs in isolation; it often relies on a network of encouragement and empowerment.

A great example is seen in professional sports teams. Athletes rely on coaches and teammates to provide constructive feedback and push them toward excellence. A basketball player aiming to improve free-throw accuracy does not practice alone but instead seeks insights from coaches, reviews game footage, and works with trainers to refine a unique technique. This structured environment ensures that accountability becomes a driving force for improvement.

PURPOSE Magazine

A Commitment to Excellence Pursuing accountability involves aspiring not only toward specific goals but also toward the highest vision of oneself. This commitment to excellence is fueled by both self-discipline and the acceptance of constructive feedback.

Accountability serves as the mechanism through which individuals align their actions with their values, encouraging a deeper sense of responsibility and progress.

For example, a university student preparing for a major exam may set a study schedule and share her goals with a peer to stay accountable. By regularly checking in and discussing progress, she not only stays on track but refines her understanding through collaboration, reinforcing her commitment to academic excellence.

The Journey of Accountability Success demands consistency and the dedication to remain accountable—both to oneself and to one’s larger goals. By fostering a mindset of growth and mutual support, individuals can generate momentum that propels them toward fulfilling their ambitions. Accountability is not simply about reaching benchmarks; it is about cultivating the discipline and persistence required to pursue excellence continuously.

Consider an individual striving for a healthier lifestyle.

Rather than setting vague resolutions, he establishes specific, measurable goals—such as exercising three times a week and tracking his nutrition. By joining a fitness group or partnering with a workout buddy, he creates a system of accountability that helps sustain motivation and drive longterm success.

Ultimately, accountability is a powerful tool for transformation. It fosters resilience, fuels progress, and reinforces a commitment to excellence. Whether in personal growth, professional ambitions, or collaborative efforts, embracing accountability can be the defining factor in achieving meaningful success.

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Publisher & Executive Editor Ella Coleman

CONTRIBUTORS

Managing Editor Alleceia M. Walker

“Next Generation NOW” is a dedicated section of PURPOSE Magazine that highlights our next generation voices.

This is a platform for brilliant college and high school scholars, so they can make a lasting impact and positive change in the global community.

Graphics Designer Tracy Sodeinde Social Media/Web Manager Imani Haupt Contributing Writers Dr. Daniel Haupt Dr. Derrick Haynes Ilinda Reese Traci Townsend Deanita McCall Emoni Hudson Trina Ramsey Lipscomb Faye Harrison

Aubriana Hills Howard University Biology Major Class of ‘27

Monique Lavoie Howard University Biology Major Class of ‘27

Luke P. Cooper Columbus College of Art and Design Interior Architecture Design Major Fine Arts Minor Class of ‘27

VaNia Ellison Kayla Grant Howard University Howard University Audio Advertising Major Production Major Class of ‘26 Class of ‘26

Maurielle Cooper Columbus School of Art & Design Fine Arts Major Class of ‘26

Next Generation Now Contributors Aubriana Hills Monique Lavoie Luke P. Cooper VaNia Ellison Kayla Grant Maurielle Cooper PURPOSE Magazine is published quarterly and is a Trademark. Copyright © 2025, Ellavation Publishing, 2868 Stelzer Road, # 156, Columbus, OH 43219. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be reproduced, distributed, or transmitted in any form or by any means in whole or in part without prior written permission from the publisher.

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PURPOSE Magazine

HBCU’s Howard University Royal Court Speaks Inspiration to Future Scholars

By Kayla Grant

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he Howard University Royal Court poured power into the scholars at Howard University Middle School of Mathematics and Science (MS)2.

Recently, In Truth and Service, our Collegiate Scholars made time instead of excuses, to speak with 6th and 7th graders about what it means to be an HBCU scholar, a King/Queen, and what a future in college can look like for them. The HU Royal Court was accompanied by the HU Residence Life Royal Court, and the Miss Krimson & Kream Royal Kourt. All courts were able to exemplify what it means to be royalty through their actions, words and deeds, and the (MS)2 scholars loved every second of it!

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PURPOSE Magazine

Pushing Beyond Fears of Perceived Failures Into Purposeful Achievements

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By Ilinda Reese

our present mindset is largely shaped by your past experiences—both positive and negative. Maybe you had a teacher who once said you weren’t creative, or perhaps you failed at something important, and it left a lasting mark. These experiences create filters through which you interpret the world, often limiting what you believe is possible for yourself.

My truth: I had been chipping away at my Master’s degree for a solid year and a half when the notice came. To continue, I would need to take the GRE test. I remember the knot in my stomach when I read those words. Still, I was determined. I bought one of those mammoth prep books— the kind that could double as a doorstop—and dove in.

At first glance, the material seemed manageable. But then, the math section stared back at me like an old nemesis. My mind immediately flashed to my earlier struggles with algebra—how I had taken the same class twice just to scrape by. That old voice, the one I thought I’d silenced, rose up again: “You’re not good at math. You never were. You’ll never be.”

Before I knew it, my subconscious had joined the conversation, piling on reasons to abandon the mission entirely.

“You’ve just started your business—you don’t have time for this. And really, is this degree even what you thought it would be?” The rationalizations came swiftly and relentlessly, dressed up as wisdom but steeped in fear. And I believed them.

full Graduate Record Examination (GRE). All that was required was a subject test specifically tied to my field— and guess what? It wasn’t heavy on math at all. The sting of that realization hit hard, but it also came with clarity. I had let a limiting belief, born from a past experience, shape my future. I had underestimated my ability, overestimated the obstacle, and robbed myself of the opportunity to finish what I’d started.

But this isn’t a story of regret; it’s a story of learning. When I finally returned to school, I did so with a renewed sense of purpose, switching institutions and changing my major to something that truly aligned with my goals. The detour wasn’t wasted time—it was a chance to recalibrate and confront the beliefs that had held me back for far too long.

It’s important to realize that your past does not define your future. Just because you struggled with something once doesn’t mean you’re destined to struggle forever. The key is to see past experiences as lessons rather than proof of your limitations. “You can’t unlock your potential with a key made of old beliefs.”

Excerpted from the upcoming book, “Break Up with Your B.S. The Journey from Self-Sabotage to Self-Mastery.”

Ilinda Reese, is an Author, International Speaker, and Transformational Coach.

Linkedin://#profile/11436460imjreesources@aol.com

I decided to step away from my studies. I convinced myself it was a strategic pause, and it worked for a while. Months later, I found out the truth: I didn’t even need to take the PURPOSE Magazine

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BEING PHYSICALLY FIT as a Woman Over

50

By Traci Townsend

Take a minute to think about what being “physically fit” means to you. Chances are that if I ask ten different people what it means, I would get ten different answers. The definition could vary based on the person’s age, gender, experience with exercise, and more. But one thing is certain, there are some key elements when it comes to physical fitness.

Cardiorespiratory fitness and muscle strength both play a role.

So, let’s look at these two elements of being physically fit a bit more closely, especially as they relate to women over 50.

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hen many women over 50 think of exercise, they often consider exercise that has a direct effect on cardiorespiratory fitness, such as jogging, swimming, walking, and cycling. These exercises are very beneficial as they help your lungs and heart be more efficient at moving oxygen and nutrients throughout your body. Many people also consider them effective when it comes to fat loss.

However, strength training in order to build muscle strength is not as common for women over 50. Why? Many women over 50 think that strength training will make them bulky. Some think that they might get hurt while strength training. And others have never done strength training before and they don’t know where to start or what to do.

Do any of these resonate with you? If so, keep reading to find out why strength training is so important.

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Here are just a few facts about the benefits of strength training for women over 50.

1. As we age, our skeletal muscle mass and strength decrease. As we lose strength, daily activities become more challenging to complete. However, strength training helps build and maintain muscle, there is no age limit and it is safe.

2. Our bone density also begins to decrease during perimenopause. A decrease in bone density can lead to osteoporosis. Approximately 10 million Americans have osteoporosis and about 80% are women (Bone Health and Osteoporosis Foundation). However, bone loss can also be offset by strength training.

3. There are other benefits of strength training to include: improved balance; improved quality of sleep, maintained or increased metabolism, reduced joint pain, and more.

PURPOSE Magazine

THE IMPACT OF STRENGTH TRAINING CAN BE LIFE-CHANGING If you have never strength trained before, but you’re ready to start, there really is no wrong or right way. You can join a gym and learn from a personal trainer who can teach you all about using the equipment properly Or you can join an online trainer or coach and be a part of their virtual fitness community to learn about strength training. If you want to start by yourself at home, you can begin with body weight moves and add resistance bands for some additional challenge.

It’s up to you. The key is to start and to keep going.

Interested in learning more?

Check out: Research Highlight by the National Institute on Aging at the National Institutes of Health.

Traci Townsend, is owner of Fitness With Traci, LLC and provides online strength and fitness coaching to women over 50. Contact her by email at Traci@fitnesswithtraci.com.

Visit her website at https://www.fitnesswithtraci.com/. Follow her on social media on Instagram and YouTube.

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THE SISTERHOOD JOURNEY: Through the Lens of Our Elders

By Deanita McCall

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n African proverb states, “Those who respect the elderly pave their own road toward success.” In 2013, I felt compelled to honor the women who significantly shaped my development. Inspired by Oprah Winfrey’s Legends Ball, I wanted to express my love and appreciation for these women, whom I collectively call my “Gems.” A gem is precious, a treasure. Each of my Gems has contributed immeasurably to my life, providing the foundation and values that still sustain me.

Black women often serve unrecognized as the backbone of families and communities. This may be because we focus on teaching girls independence, responsibility, and nurturing others, while neglecting self-care—something many elders haven’t experienced. I wanted to introduce my Gems to this concept, celebrate their impact, and express how they uniquely touched my life. In 2019, I invited them to Charleston, SC, for a cultural experience. Most, being from Texas, had never explored the charm of the city and its rich history.

I carefully planned our itinerary to evoke the youthful spirit within each of us. Our weekend included physical movement through a belly dancing class, a photoshoot celebrating our unique beauty, exploring Charleston’s history with a plantation visit and Gullah culture learning, and a reflective

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teatime. With increased longevity, interactions between multiple generations are vital. While times change, some experiences are universal. Women of different eras offer invaluable wisdom to younger generations. I can say unequivocally this has been my experience.

Through my Gems, I learned that a woman who holds her peace retains her power. I was also taught whether it’s your own well-being or your possessions, taking care of them reflects self-respect. Living in North Carolina while my family was in Texas made a later-in-life Gem essential for me navigating motherhood. Ultimately, my Gems helped me realize that women have the power to transcend their past, create their own future, and become who God intended them to be.

Deanita McCall, is a strategic leader, entrepreneur, and author. She resides in Charlotte, NC.

PURPOSE Magazine

FINDING MEANING IN ADVESITY

By Emoni Hudson

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arning a living in today’s financial climate is challenging; yet resourcefulness and hard work can secure weekly income, easing financial burdens and paving the way for stability. When faced with life’s difficulties, whether physical, mental, emotional, social, spiritual, or financial, feeling lost is understandable. Identifying these challenges is the first step, but finding support and answers can be daunting. However, remember that adversity unveils hidden opportunities.

Dave, states that confidence helps you become more resilient. She explains, “Not everything in life is going to go smoothly. There will be times when you will hit roadblocks and experience challenges. Confidence will put these challenges and potential failures into perspective. Making mistakes is all part of learning and by being more confident, you will take a more proactive approach in correcting them and making sure those mistakes do not happen again.”

When employment and income doors shut, creative means of income await discovery. Job loss, for instance, can be offset by temporary income streams like rideshare driving, handy work, grocery shopping services, clothes sales, tutoring, even babysitting. These avenues provide financial breathing room while pursuing long-term goals. Patience, dedication, and thorough research are essential to finding these opportunities.

Once you find a temporary solution that works best for you, embrace it as a steppingstone on the path to higher income.

Stephanie Ferguson Melhorn, the Senior Director of Workforce & International Labor Policy at the U.S. Chamber of Commerce, published an article on March 21, 2025, titled: Understanding America’s Labor Shortage. In this article, it states that right now, the latest data shows there are 8 million job openings in the U.S. but only 6.8 million unemployed workers. We have a lot of jobs but not enough workers to fill them. If every unemployed person in the country found a job, there would still be millions of open jobs. There are many factors contributing to a labor shortage. However, ultimately, if a person is determined and actively seeking, there will be a job available to them. This serves as further motivation and a reminder that job loss is not the end.

Celebrate every success, big or small, as these build confidence. Public Speaking Expert & Trainer, Sonal

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Confirm your calling and election!

Adversity is inevitable, but its timing and form are unpredictable. When it strikes, understand that it is only temporary unless you prolong it. Our reaction dictates its power. Therefore, acceptance not avoidance, is key for an effective approach. Consider job loss again: while temporary work provides stability during the search for a permanent, yet desirable position, skill development is also crucial.

To identify your strengths, consider: •

Current/previous job responsibilities

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Relevant education and past experiences

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Skills acquired in daily life

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Feedback from trusted individuals.

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Personal reflection on strengths and areas for improvement

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Formal skills assessments

As we navigate the journey of self and career, moments of doubt may surface, prompting the question, “Why am I being overlooked?” It is then that we must consciously reaffirm our value. There are many ways to do this: practice self-care, cultivate a positive mindset, set healthy boundaries, limit social media consumption, etc.

Remember, adversity does not define you, it refines you.

“Therefore, my brothers and sisters, make every effort to confirm your calling and election. For if you do these things, you will never stumble (2 Peter 1:10)”

Emoni Hudson, is a freelance writer who provides creative and professional writing for organizations, businesses, corporations and agencies.

Once you identify what your skills are, use them to move closer to your permanent position.

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PURPOSE Magazine

THE WISE PURPOSE ACADEMY: Bringing Hope and Transformation to Youths in Nigeria

By Ella Coleman

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n a world filled with untapped potential and unrealized dreams, The Wise Purpose Academy (TWPA) stands as a beacon of hope and transformation. It is more than a program—it is a dynamic movement, a platform, and a revolution of purpose designed to awaken greatness in the hearts of young people. “We are nurturing a new generation of visionaries, builders, and leaders who will redefine their communities and reshape the world,” emphasized Pastor Prince Ikikah,

founder of TWPA, pastor of Altar of Hope Church, and author of Hope Daily Devotional.

Even as Ikikah talks, his belief and commitment to developing the potential in youths comes across strongly. “At The Wise Purpose Academy, we believe that every young person carries within them a seed of extraordinary potential. Our

“Our vision is to create a world where young people are

fully empowered to discover, develop, and fulfill their life purpose, achieving true fulfillment and making a transformative impact in their communities and beyond.”

-Pastor Prince Ikikah

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purpose is to cultivate that seed, guiding it to blossom into purpose-driven lives that inspire change, foster innovation, and ignite a ripple effect of positive impact across nations,” explained Ikikah.

Seeing the poverty and hopelessness young people were experiencing, Pastor Ikikah was inspired with a God-given vision to stir up an awakening of purpose in Nigerian children and teens. “Our vision is to create a world where young people are fully empowered to discover, develop, and fulfill their life purpose, achieving true fulfillment and making a transformative impact in their communities and beyond,” declared Ikikah.

Ikikah is not just speaking words. He and his team are working daily on goals. Ikikah expounded, “Our goal is to train and empower 10,000 young leaders across Africa by 2035, enabling them to realize their unique purpose, develop their talents and skills, and become catalysts for transformational change in their spheres of influence.”

All of TWPA’s goals “are possible and will manifest,” Ikikah emphasized, “with a strong faith in God and foundational core values.” He said the core values are universal and enable TWPA to bear good fruit through the youth to whom they minister, teach, and mentor. He said, “There are six core values we actively apply.

1. Purpose-Driven Excellence: We commit to helping individuals discover their unique purpose and strive for excellence in all they do.

2. Empowerment: We believe in equipping young people with the tools and confidence to lead and innovate.

3. Integrity: We operate with honesty, transparency, and a strong ethical foundation.

4. Innovation: We encourage creative thinking and adaptability to solve real-world challenges.

5. Collaboration: We foster partnerships and teamwork to achieve collective success.

6. Community Impact: We prioritize solutions that uplift and transform communities for the better.”

Currently, TWPA is fulfilling its mission to transform lives by helping young people discover their divine purpose and equipping them through transformative coaching, impactful mentoring, leadership development, and entrepreneurial innovation.

Looking ahead, with a confident and royal Nigerian demeanor, Ikikah said, “With The Wise Purpose Academy, the journey toward purpose begins with a single step.

Together, we can inspire, empower, and transform lives across generations.”

THE IKIKAH FAMILY For more information or to contribute to The Wise Purpose Academy, contact Pastor Prince Ikikah at wisepurposeacademy@gmail.com; 24 Atuzieogwu Street, Elikpokwuodu, Rukpokwu Town Port Harcourt, Rivers State, 500102, Nigeria.

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PURPOSE Magazine

Healing the Family Tree:

Strategies & Spiritual Warfare for Replacing Inherited Disfunction with Healthy Behaviors

By Dr. Daniel Haupt Every family walks through the door of lineage, down a street called legacy. Some streets shine with light—generational blessings like faith, wisdom, and strength.

Others are shadowed by pain—cycles of brokenness, poverty, or addiction. Most of us live on a road built with both. This spiritual path is what I call the generational charisma of a family—the emotional and spiritual atmosphere passed from one generation to the next.

Deuteronomy 30:19 (AMP) says, “I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse; therefore, you shall choose life in order that you may live, you and your descendants.” Healing the family tree means intentionally choosing life and leading your family into blessings.

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What Is Generational Charisma?

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enerational charisma is more than talent or charm.

It’s the unseen force that influences patterns—good or bad—across generations. Think of the biblical story of Jacob blessing his grandsons, Ephraim and Manasseh (Genesis 48:13–19). Though Manasseh was the firstborn, Jacob prophetically laid his right hand on Ephraim, transferring a greater blessing. God’s plan broke tradition and created a new legacy.

Our families carry both spiritual inheritance and spiritual interference. Recognizing this is the first step toward healing.

Strategy 1: Lay Hands and Speak Life The Bible teaches us to lay hands for blessing, healing, and impartation (Hebrews 6:1–2). Words carry power (Proverbs 18:21), especially when spoken by those with spiritual authority.

Action: Begin speaking life over your children and family.

Bless them during milestones—birthdays, transitions, or trials. Break cycles with your voice and affirm their Godgiven identity.

Strategy 2: Activate Prayer and Repentance Generational curses are broken through prayer, confession, and spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:12). Prayer is the gate through which healing flows.

Action: Confess family struggles. Renounce destructive patterns. Declare freedom through Galatians 3:13, 14: “Christ redeemed us from the curse… so that by faith we might receive the promise.”

Strategy 3: Live a Legacy of Holiness Psalm 112:1, 2 says the children of the righteous will be mighty. Blessings don’t come just from what we say—they come from how we live.

Strategy 4: Build a Legacy with the Seeds of Your Time, Talent, and Treasure Healing the family tree is not only about breaking what’s broken; it’s about building what’s blessed. Legacy is not left—it’s lived, daily, by planting intentional seeds of time, talent, and treasure into your family and community. Proverbs 13:22 (NLT) reminds us, “Good people leave an inheritance to his children’s children.” That inheritance is more than wealth—it’s wisdom, values, and opportunity.

Just as Abraham left altars of worship and obedience that shaped nations, you can build generational altars through sacrificial love, service, and generosity. Time invested in mentoring your children, serving others with your talents, and giving your treasure for kingdom causes all work together to establish a foundation on which future generations can stand.

Action: Evaluate where you are investing your daily energy.

Start small—create a weekly family time to pray, serve in the local church with your unique gifts, or begin giving consistently to support family and faith-based missions.

You are not just spending time—you are sowing legacy.

Final Word Your family legacy is not fixed. You are the interruption to dysfunction. You are the bridge to blessing. Healing your family tree starts with you—but it doesn’t end with you.

Call to Action: Download your free 31-Day Family Healing Prayer Guide at PrayFastDaily.org and activate the generational blessings over your family and home.

Dr. Daniel Haupt, is a Life Destiny Strategist, founder/vision pastor of Voice Of Destiny Ministries and PrayFastDaily. org, a strategic praying, fasting, teaching and training ministry. DenverDestinyCenter.org Life Destiny Strategies with the Denver Destiny Center | Purpose Magazine

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PURPOSE Magazine

Embrace Sweet Freedom!

A Life of Joy, Balance, and Abundance

By Trina Ramsey Lipscomb

“I have come that they may have life, and have it more abundantly.” -John 10:10

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od never intended for us to live in a constant state of stress, exhaustion, or self-sacrifice at the expense of our well-being. Yet, so many of us—especially those called to serve—carry unnecessary burdens, pouring out love, energy, and time to others but not extending the same grace to ourselves.

That’s where Sweet Freedom comes in. It’s about releasing what no longer serves you—whether it’s toxic relationships, limiting beliefs, or selfimposed obligations—and stepping into the life of joy and purpose that God desires for you.

What Is Sweet Freedom?

Sweet Freedom requires an internal shift. It’s the courage to say no to things that drain you and yes to what fills your spirit. It’s choosing joy over duty, faith over fear, and grace over guilt.

Jesus calls us to love our neighbors as ourselves. But if we’re always running on empty, how can we fully serve others? True abundance means honoring God’s call on your life while also honoring the temple He has given you— your body, mind, and soul.

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Trina’s Story: Unapologetically Choosing Myself For most of my life, I wore the mask of having it all together.

Growing up in poverty in a small Pennsylvania town, the eldest of three girls in a single-mother household, I learned early how to hide my pain. My mother battled mental health issues, and my grandmother, who helped raise us, struggled with alcoholism.

At 14, my world shattered—my mother took her life, and my grandmother passed away months later.

Despite these losses, I became “Superwoman,” determined to prove I wasn’t defined by my past. I excelled outwardly but struggled inwardly, haunted by imposter syndrome and a relentless fear of failure, bankruptcy, divorce, job loss—you name it, I faced it. Yet, I kept pushing, desperate to prove my worth.

Until now.

Then, God led me into a season of transformation. I learned to let go of shame and embrace my true worth—not because of what I achieve, but because of who I am in Christ. Today, I am free. I have a new husband who cherishes me, a thriving business, and a heart full of purpose. I am no longer proving myself—I am being myself. And that is the sweetest freedom of all.

Your Turn!

What’s holding you back from the abundant life God has for you? The need to please others? Fear of stepping into something new? A sense of duty with no room for joy?

Sweet Freedom isn’t just my story—it’s yours, too. Maybe it means setting boundaries, leaving what no longer serves you, or simply saying yes to joy. Whatever it looks like, I pray you’ll find the courage to claim it.

This is your invitation to reclaim your own peace, purpose, and joy. Because when you walk in God’s freedom, you are finally free to be who He created you to be.

Trina Ramsey Lipscomb, is CEO of the Just Do You Institute for Women’s Empowerment LLC. She is an executive, leadership and nonprofit coach and consultant based in the San Francisco Bay Area. Learn more about Trina’s Sweet Freedom Program and access free resources by visiting https://trinaramsey. com/sweet-freedom and https://justdoyouinstitute.com/ or @mycoachtrina on social media. Email: trina@mycoachtrina.com

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PURPOSE Magazine

“Worthy” to Ask God

By Faye Harrison Moses had to approach God on the behalf of the people.

Moses received divine strategies, guidance, and protection because he asked God. Saul before he became Apostle Paul persecuted the church; his sole mission was to shut the church down. Also, he was responsible for many deaths and evoked fear everywhere he went, yet God counted him worthy for his use. Thus, there are many accounts of Paul asking God for whatever he needed. We can look at so many others in the Bible, be it David, the adulterer, Peter, a Christ-denier, and even the woman caught in the very act of adultery. Society said, “No” as their shortcomings are recounted BUT GOD said a resounding, “YES”.

This is because theirs as well as our worthiness has nothing to do with us asking God for His help and intervention, but everything to do with God.

H

ave you ever heard the statement, don’t judge a book by its cover? I am sure you have. We know this to mean, what is seen on the outside does not necessarily tell the whole story. Yet, we are all guilty of judging others based on their appearance, their manner of speech, their level of warmth, or perceived competence.

We can be just as guilty when judging ourselves. Despite the desire for better, when an opportunity or invitation is given to move forward, there is a tendency to find reasons why we cannot ask about, move toward, or even to approach the new thing. Because we feel like we do not measure up to our own or society’s standards, we often fall prey to feelings of unworthiness. This makes it difficult to approach anyone, especially God. Don’t forget that God never looks at us from the outside. He goes straight for the heart. He knows that we are dust and fallible, according to Psalms 103. Yet God tells us, “You are fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14).

So, if you see yourself in this article, you need never question, or fear coming to God to talk or ask him for anything because He says “come.” Hebrews 4:13 says “Let us therefore come boldly to the throne of grace, that we may obtain mercy, and find grace to help in time of need. Scripture also encourages us to “Give all our worries and cares to God because he cares for us” (1 Peter 5:7).

Matthew 7:7 says “Ask, and it shall be given you.” Tell me, does that sound like someone who does not see you as worthy of his attention or time? Not at all!

So, no more beating yourself up with thoughts of unworthiness. None of us is perfect and God knows this, however, He is willing to perfect all that concerns us when we come to him and boldly ASK.

Faye Harrison, is a Christian Mentoring and Transition Program Ministry (CMAT) member and author. Also, she is a faithful member of First Baptist Church of Glenarden, Upper Marlboro, Maryland.

As parents expect a child to come to them no matter what they did, God beckons us the same way. God chose Moses to deliver his people out of bondage and in doing so,

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Spring 2025

BUILT WITH PURPOSE: A Blueprint for Black Men’s Health

By Dr. D, Your Career Doctor

A

s Black men, we were designed with purpose and crafted with intention. We are here to create, construct, and defend. However, in this process, there is a tendency to ignore the machinery we were given to do the very work: our bodies.

In addition to eating better, it’s important to move your body. This includes going to the gym, walking, lifting, or doing any kind of exercise to stay in motion. Many diseases can be addressed by simply adding movement to your lifestyle.

As men, we’re known for being strong. Also, we are known for the hustle and sacrifices we make. We’ll show up for everyone else while breaking down on the inside. But we call that survival. And what’s worse is—we were made for more than just surviving.

If you’re struggling to make changes, start with a tiny habit.

Example: “I plan to walk around the block four times after dinner, four days a week when the weather permits.” The goal line is longevity.

It’s time to make this personal. Let’s get intentional about our health. Not just for us, but for everyone who needs us to show up and be present.

Look—it’s time for some real talk. Many of us don’t like to go to the doctor. How many times have we said, “I’m in pain, but I’m good”?

Here is Dr. D’s three-point prescription to shift from survival to strength:

Let’s be real: that mentality will send us to the morgue quickly. It’s time out for minimizing symptoms and pushing through pain. Black men are often diagnosed late and treated too late because we delay care.

Protect Your Spiritual Health Your spiritual health is your fundamental source. It powers how you show up in all aspects of life; at work, how you handle pressure, how you love, and how you heal. As Black men, having endured every kind of adversity, we carry the weight of generational trauma, societal expectations, and disappointments. Without a strong spiritual foundation, that weight can potentially crush us. Developing prayer as a habit is a good place to start. This does not have to be formal. Just talk to God wherever you are, silently when necessary.

Eat to Live, Don’t Live to Eat Many of us have confused food as a source of convenience or a delicacy. It’s all too easy to access foods full of fats, caffeine, sugar, and chemicals that aren’t good for our bodies.

We were originally designed to eat as a form of living, but we’ve flipped the dynamic—now we live to eat whatever we want. I encourage you to examine ways to eat better so you can protect your body. You only have one.

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Listen to Your Body Like It’s Speaking Truth (Because It Is)

Don’t let pride cost you your future. The real “man-up” is following up with your doctor. You can’t hustle and provide from a hospital bed—or a casket. So, listen to your body and see the doctor.

Remember: You were built with purpose. Don’t let personal neglect and bad choices write your ending. The real hustle is protecting your health. If you want to develop some small habits to make life changes contact me at customer. service@yourcareerdoctor.com.

Derrick E. Haynes, PhD, is a charismatic leader, accomplished author, and seasoned executive coach dedicated to helping individuals and organizations thrive.

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